Dreadlocks and sisterlocks are both protective hairstyles that can be put on natural hair for a desirable natural look, but major differences exist between them.

One key difference is size. While dreadlocks are typically thicker styles made by twisting hair strands into bands or ringlets, sisterlocks are smaller and finer, created on sectioned hair using a special tool.

Sisterlocks are slightly different, a spin-off that is as versatile as it gets, giving you all the room to experiment. That is our focus in this article. So, get on board, and let’s look at what sets the two protective locking styles apart, shall we?

Key Differences between Sisterlocks and Dreadlocks

While both are protective styles, dreadlocks and sisterlocks have some notable differences, as you can see below.

Size: Dreadlocks range from medium to large size, while sisterlocks are smaller and finer.

Creation. If there is anything that clearly sets the two styles apart, then it is how they are created.

Dreadlocks can be created by palm rolling, interlocking, or by simply letting them develop without doing anything to the hair. No such luxury exists with sisterlocks, which require a specific interlocking tool.

Maintenance: Dreadlocks are easier to maintain at home with simple retwisting compared to sisterlocks, which require the services of a specialist to re-tighten for neatness and uniform look.

Hair type: What hair type takes what styling option is a key point of variation in dreadlocks-sisterlocks discussion. While dreadlocks are used on natural hair, sisterlocks tend to be more accommodative and so can be used on both natural and relaxed hair.

Scalp comfort: Dreadlocks can cause tension and scalp discomfort. Sisterlocks on the other hand, are tiny and gentler on the scalp.

Styling: Styling differences relate to the sections. Dreadlocks require medium to large sections of hair and the sheer bulk of these limit intricate updos.

For sisterlocks, a special tool is used on small sections of hair.

Cost: It is not in doubt that rocking your dreads or sisterlocks comes at a cost. But one is going to pinch a few more notes off your ward than the other.

Cost favours dreadlocks. They are less expensive to install and maintain compared to sisterlocks, which need a specialized technique and consultation.

Installation of Dreadlocks versus Sisterlocks

Generally, dreadlocks require less effort to style compared to sisterlocks because they do not require intricate patterns and can even be allowed to form on their own.

Installing Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks installation will depend on your hair type and desired dread size, among other things.

Here’s a breakdown of two popular installation methods for dreadlocks: two-strand twist or free form and backcombing/crochet

Two-Strand Twist or Freeform

This is a method that lets your hair to loc up on its own, guided of course by the twisting technique. It’s suitable for hair that’s already coily or tightly curled.

Requirements:

You require a moisturizer, parting comb and clips (optional)

Process:

1. Wash and condition your hair thoroughly.

2. Moisturize your hair using a leave-in conditioner

3. Part your hair into small sections (size determines dread thickness).

4. Starting at the root, twist two small sections of hair together tightly away from the scalp

5. Continue twisting down the length of the hair, adding small sections as you go to maintain tightness

6. Once you reach the end, keep the twist secure with a hair tie—you may also tuck the loose hair under the coil

7. Repeat the above for all sections

Here is a video that you may watch and learn how to install dreadlocks:

b. Backcombing and Crochet

If your desire is more mature-looking dreadlocks from the beginning, then go for this method. It is also suitable for most hair types.

Requirements:

You will require a moisturizer, parting comb, crochet hook and dread wax (optional).

Process:

1. Wash and condition your hair before all else

2. Apply a leave-in conditioner

3. Section your hair (size of section determines the thickness)

4. Start at the root and backcomb a small section of hair upwards for a fuzzy texture

5. Using a crochet hook, pull loose hairs into the base of the backcombed section to create a tight coil

6. For extra hold, use a small amount of dread wax, only avoid overuse

7. Repeat for all sections

Installing Sisterlocks

Installing sisterlocks requires special skills. That is why you will have to consult a specialist. The reason for this is that first it is a unique style that requiring a special tool to create precise and uniform locks.

Then, the locks characteristically form a grid pattern for optimal density and balance. Such a pattern is supposed to suit the shape of your head and hair.

In addition, things like lock size depend on the health of your hair. Thus, a consultant will recommend just what fits.

To have sisterlocks, these are the steps to follow:

1. Consult and discuss what you need for your hair with a sisterlocks consultant.

2. The consultant will cleanse your scalp to rid it of any product build-up.

3.The consultant parts your hair to create a precise grid pattern on your scalp for lock placement.

4. Using the interlocking tool, the consultant interlocks your hair working from one section to another

How to Care for Dreadlocks versus Sisterlocks

Sisterlocks are easier to maintain, more so to wash and moisturize because they have smaller sections. See a related article on how to grow locs faster.

How Long Do Dreadslocks and Sisterlocks Take to Form?

If you have made the decision to rock dreadlocks/ sisterlocks, you are now probably asking yourself how long it will take for you to have them.

Dreadlocks can take as many as 18 months to form and mature.

Sisterlocks, on the other hand, can take 3 to 2 months once installed.

In summary,

• Dreadlocks are large-to medium-sized, while sisterlocks are small. The large size of dreadlocks may cause tension on the scalp, which doesn’t happen with the relatively smaller sisterlocks.
• When it comes to maintenance, sisterlocks are more time-consuming. But they are more versatile.
• For all their versatility, however, sisterlocks tip the scales when it comes to cost especially because they require a specialist to install. So, if you are making cost considerations, then you may favour dreadlocks.

Ultimately, whether you are simply after a protective style or you are making a fashion statement, dreadlocks and sisterlocks are open for you to try out. With this information, go ahead and rock what fits your hair type, budget and occasion.